For homeowners in Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs, vinyl siding is a popular choice because it looks good, doesn’t cost a ton, and is pretty easy to take care of. Most of the time, vinyl siding lasts between 20 and 40 years. In some cases, it can even last longer if it’s good quality and well taken care of. Depending on the craftsmanship and materials that are used, you can enjoy your siding for years to come. At Cover All Exteriors, we are well versed in provided a professional service for the exterior of your home.
What Affects the Lifespan?
For starters, the quality of the siding itself makes a big difference. Cheaper, thinner vinyl siding can crack or fade faster, while better quality siding is thicker and made to handle weather and sun better. If you go with a good brand, there’s a good chance it’ll last on the longer end of that 40-year range. Another important factor is how well the siding was installed. Even the best siding won’t last long if it wasn’t put on right. Bad installation can lead to warping, water damage, or problems during storms. So it’s definitely worth hiring an expert like Cover All Exteriors who knows what they’re doing.
The weather where you live also plays a big part. In areas with mild climates, siding can stay in great shape for decades. But if you live somewhere with a lot of heat, cold, strong winds, or storms, your siding may wear out sooner. Sunlight, especially, can fade the color over time. Lighter colors usually don’t show fading as much as darker ones. Some newer vinyl siding comes with special coatings that help prevent fading, which is an added bonus.
While vinyl siding is low-maintenance, it still needs a little attention now and then. Giving it a quick wash once a year with a hose or pressure washer can keep it looking good and help prevent mold or mildew, especially in damp or shaded spots. It’s also smart to check for cracks, gaps, or any signs of damage, and fix them before they get worse. Having a professional service provider inspect your siding can potentially save you money in the long run.
Although your siding may not be 40 years old, there are signs it might need to be replaced. If it’s cracking, warping, feels brittle, or if you see mold or water damage, it could be time for new siding. Also, if your heating or cooling bills have gone up, your siding might not be insulating your home as well as it should. Small repairs are possible such as replacing just one or two damaged panels. You can also paint vinyl siding if it’s faded or if you want a new color, but keep in mind that once you paint it, you might have to repaint every so often, which means more upkeep.
Overall, vinyl siding is a good option that can last 20 to 40 years or longer if you treat it right. Good materials, proper installation, and some basic care can go a long way. It’s a great option if you want something that looks nice, protects your home, and doesn’t need a ton of maintenance. It is always recommended that you check in with your local roofing and siding company to ensure that you are on the right path. Whether you are having issues with your siding or your roof, call Cover All Exteriors and speak with one of our highly skilled roofers.